The Methuen Police Department has taken into custody, Donald Berridge, 35 Shirley Avenue, Methuen, on a warrant for operating under the influence of liquor, fifth offense.
On Sunday July 13, Officer Joseph Rynne was dispatched to the area of Osgood Street for a report of a single vehicle car crash. Upon arriving, Officer Rynne located a 2006 Dodge Caravan against the building of New England Floor covering. Donald Berridge was passed out behind the wheel.
Witnesses related following the black van on Route 28 Broadway Southbound when they observed Berridge’s vehicle swerving and narrowly avoiding having a crash with two other motor vehicles. Berridge then stopped at the intersection of Osgood Street, and subsequently turned onto Osgood Street and struck the building of New England Floor Covering.
Due to Berridge’s condition he was subsequently transported to Holy Family Hospital.
Officer Rynne continued his investigation, subsequently obtaining a search warrant for Berridge’s medical records and blood which revealed Berridge to have an alcohol level almost 4 times the legal limit.
As a result of Officer Rynne’s investigation, an arrest warrant was sought and Berridge was subsequently arrested this evening charging him with OUI – liquor – fifth offense, marked lanes violation, operating so as to endanger and operating a vehicle without being license.
Due to the seriousness of this arrest, Methuen Police will be requesting a dangerousness hearing via the Essex County District Attorney’s Office.
Berridge is being held on $10,000 cash bail.